Plumbago capensis - Cape PlumbagoPlumbaginaceae

Plumbago capensis is an evergreen shrub that will grow as a vine if tied to a trellis. Cape plumbago is a native of South Africa.

Blooming Time: Pale blue 1 inch flowers bloom in phlox-like clusters all year long. The fruit is a sticky bur.

Culture:Plumbago capensis need at least 4 hours of full sun per day with night temperatures of 45 to 50°, day temperatures of 60 to 80°. Humidity of 40 to 60% is desirable. Plant cape plumbago in a compost that consists of 2 parts loam to 1 part peat moss to 1 part sand. Keep the compost evenly moist. Feed established plants monthly with a balanced fertilizer diluted to half the strength recommended on the label. Cape plumbago responds well to heavy pruning to thin the plant and to keep it within a manageable size.

Propagation:Plumbago capensis is propagated by division or stem cuttings rooted in moist vermiculite.

Plumbago capensis was featured as Plant of the "Week" May 21-June 3, 1999.